Chicken Lasagna

Chicken Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any dining table. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or when you’re simply craving something hearty. With layers of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and a rich sauce, Chicken Lasagna stands out for its delightful flavors and satisfying textures. It’s a recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Rich Flavor: The combination of cheeses and spices creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this lasagna is simple enough for even beginner cooks.
• Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Serving up to 10 people, it’s perfect for gatherings or meal prep for busy weeks ahead.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to add more veggies or swap in your favorite herbs to tailor it to your family’s taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Chicken Lasagna, having the right tools on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Cooking pot
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large baking dish: This allows you to layer all the ingredients comfortably without spilling over.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly for smooth layering.
• Cooking pot: Perfect for preparing sauces or blanching vegetables if needed.
• Whisk: Useful for blending eggs with cheeses smoothly.

Ingredients

This dinner is so comforting and hits the spot every time! It is definitely on repeat at my house!

For the Noodles

• 1 box lasagna noodles (cooked according to the package)

For the Cheese Mixture

• 6 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 8 oz shredded parmesan cheese
• 25 oz cottage cheese (pureed until smooth or Ricotta cheese)
• 1 cup chicken stock

For the Chicken Filling

• 5 cups cooked chicken (finely chopped; rotisserie chicken works well)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped)
• 5 oz fresh spinach (chopped)

For the Cream Sauce

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp dried parsley (for topping)
• 8 oz grated parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Servings: 10
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 120 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keywords: chicken lasagna, chicken lasagna recipe
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 853 kcal, Carbs: 12 g, Protein: 65 g, Fat: 60 g, Saturated Fat: 33 g, Cholesterol: 237 mg, Sodium: 2320 mg, Fiber: 0.4 g, Sugar: 6 g

How to Make Chicken Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain them and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In a large cooking pot:
1. Heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Step 4: Mix Chicken Filling

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine cooked chicken with sautéed onions and garlic.
2. Season with salt, pepper, chopped basil, and spinach.

Step 5: Prepare Cheese Mixture

In another bowl:
1. Mix cottage cheese (or Ricotta), egg, heavy cream, dried parsley, and half of the mozzarella cheese until well blended.

Step 6: Layer Your Lasagna

In a large baking dish:
1. Spread a thin layer of chicken stock at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of noodles followed by half of the chicken filling.
3. Spread half of the cheese mixture over it.
4. Repeat layers ending with noodles on top.
5. Finish with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses sprinkled on top.

Step 7: Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Then remove foil and bake an additional 35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Let it cool for about 15 minutes before slicing into pieces. Garnish with extra parsley if desired!

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Lasagna!

How to Serve Chicken Lasagna

Serving Chicken Lasagna can elevate your dining experience, making it not just a meal but a delightful occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement this comforting dish.

Classic Pairings

• Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh and crunchy salad that adds a nice contrast to the creamy lasagna.

Flavorful Additions

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned broccoli provides a healthy side with vibrant color.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender brings out their natural sweetness.

Unique Twists

• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing touch.
• Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa and veggies make for a hearty side dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Lasagna

Perfecting Chicken Lasagna involves attention to detail and following some essential tips to ensure it’s always a hit.

• bold Layer Wisely: Start with sauce, then noodles, followed by cheese and chicken. Repeat layers but reserve some cheese for the top.
• bold Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh herbs and good-quality cheeses enhance flavors significantly.
• bold Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Bake until bubbly and golden brown; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• bold Let It Rest: Allow the lasagna to sit for about 15 minutes after baking. This helps it set for easier slicing.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Lasagna

Pairing sides with Chicken Lasagna can enhance the meal’s overall balance and flavor profile. Here are some excellent options you might consider.

1. Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes dressed lightly complements the richness of lasagna.
2. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles add freshness without adding heavy carbs.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Seasoned with olive oil and lemon juice, this side adds a sophisticated touch.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses provides variety and flavor contrast.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter offers a sweet balance to savory lasagna.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are an irresistible accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make small mistakes that can affect the final taste of Chicken Lasagna. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using uncooked noodles: Always cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Uncooked noodles can lead to a hard texture in your lasagna.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken and sauces properly can result in bland flavors. Always add salt, pepper, and herbs at each layer.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the lasagna immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes before serving.
• Overloading on cheese: While cheese is essential, too much can make your dish greasy. Stick to recommended amounts for balanced flavors.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality chicken or cheese can impact the dish’s overall taste. Opt for fresh ingredients whenever possible.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Lasagna in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3–5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Lasagna

• Wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Frozen Chicken Lasagna can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Lasagna

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a single portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken stock. Stir occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Chicken Lasagna different from traditional lasagna?

Chicken Lasagna substitutes chicken for traditional meat, offering a lighter option while still providing rich flavors through layers of cheese and sauce.

Can I customize my Chicken Lasagna?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or switch up the cheeses based on your preferences.

How do I ensure my Chicken Lasagna isn’t watery?

Make sure to drain excess moisture from cooked spinach and fully cook your chicken before layering, as this reduces liquid during baking.

Can I use store-bought sauce in my Chicken Lasagna?

Yes, using store-bought marinara or alfredo sauce can save time without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure it’s high-quality!

Conclusion

This Chicken Lasagna recipe is comfort food at its best! With its creamy layers and delicious flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!